Some of you may rarely hear its name anymore, while others may be new to it. But for some, the Wau Bulan is quite familiar.
It is not merely a kite, but a heritage, a majestic symbol that tells the story of who we are as a nation. With its crescent moon shape and vibrant decorations, this kite has become a traditional icon admired not only in the skies but also in the hearts of the Malaysian people.
Let’s delve deeper into the uniqueness of the Wau Bulan, its origins, the challenges it faces, and its role in popular culture.
Origins and Meaning of the Wau Bulan
The Wau Bulan is one of the most renowned traditional kites in Malaysia, particularly popular in the East Coast regions such as Kelantan, Terengganu, Perlis, and Kedah. It is named “bulan” (which means "moon" in Malay) due to the crescent-like shape of its upper section, often associated with the beauty of the night and the tranquility of nature.
In the past, wau were flown after the rice harvest season as a form of community entertainment. Local beliefs also held that flying wau could ward off evil spirits and keep wild birds away from the fields.
A Craft of Precision and Artistry
Making a wau is no ordinary task. It requires great skill, patience, and a deep artistic touch. The frame is typically made from thorny bamboo, which is both lightweight and durable.
Once the frame is completed, it is covered with colored paper or fabric and then decorated with traditional Malay floral and geometric motifs. Each design carries its own meaning and reflects the cultural values and aesthetics of the local community.
Unfortunately, the intricacy involved in crafting a wau is one of the reasons why it is becoming less popular. Many younger generations are unaware of how to properly make or fly a wau. The lengthy process and relatively high cost have also led people to favor digital entertainment or modern games instead.
Wau in Festivals and Competitions
Despite its declining popularity among youth, the wau remains a star attraction at various cultural festivals. Events such as the Pasir Gudang World Kite Festival and the Kelantan International Wau Festival regularly host wau competitions with various categories.
Each kite is judged based on its shape, design, color, and flight performance. These festivals often become a gathering ground for wau enthusiasts from both Malaysia and abroad.
Malaysia Airlines Logo
The beauty of the Wau Bulan isn't limited to the skies, it also soars high in the world of aviation. Did you know that the Malaysia Airlines logo is inspired by the shape of the Wau Bulan? This symbol was chosen because it reflects elegance, cultural richness, and Malaysia’s national identity.
Interestingly, in 2022, Malaysia Airlines released special amenities for business class passengers featuring Wau Bulan elements in the blanket design, highlighting the kite as a signature of the airline.
Wau Bulan in Upin & Ipin
Children can also get to know the wau through the popular animated series Upin & Ipin. In the episode titled “Terbang Tinggi-Tinggi” or “Flying High”, the story follows Tok Dalang teaching Upin, Ipin, and their friends how to make a wau from bamboo.
At one point, Fizi accidentally hits a bird with his kite, and Tok Dalang takes care of the injured animal. Later, Upin and Ipin accidentally destroy the wau that Tok Dalang had made.
To cheer him up, they work hard to build a new wau. During the process, Tok Dalang joins in to help them. Once the wau is finished, he takes them to a Wau Competition to fly their handmade Wau Bulan.
Tok Dalang also introduces the different types of wau in the competition, saying, “This one is the most beautiful kite. This is Malaysia’s pride, Wau Bulan.” In the end, they successfully participate and win the competition.
A Tradition That Nearly Lost Its Wind
Unfortunately, the presence of the wau has been increasingly overshadowed by the rise of technology. Children now prefer mobile games over running through open fields to fly a kite. Very few know the techniques or meanings behind each wau design. Moreover, the skill of making wau is becoming rare due to the lack of tradition bearers.
To the World, It’s a Kite. To Us, It’s a National Treasure
Still, there is hope. Communities like the Malaysian Kite Association (Persatuan Pelayang Malaysia) remain active by organizing workshops and cultural festivals to keep the tradition alive. The role of media, education, and cultural figures is also essential in reviving the public’s appreciation for this traditional art.
